The Lautoka City Council is poised to initiate upgrades at Churchill Park stadium once financial resources are secured, according to CEO Mohammed Anees Khan. Plans include replacing the wooden pavilion with a concrete structure that will increase seating capacity and enhance facilities for media, corporate hospitality, and changing rooms.
Currently, an engineering consultant is working on repairs to the main pavilion’s roof and the creation of a broadcast camera platform. The same firm is also designing advertising billboards along the embankment and implementing a digital scoreboard and replay screen. These upgrades are set to occur within the next two to four years and may involve leasing commercial spaces.
The council has previously conducted improvements on the stadium’s turf, particularly in its irrigation and drainage systems, which included installing new water pumps and boreholes to ensure suitable turf conditions during dry spells. Khan emphasized that large events, particularly upcoming Super Rugby matches scheduled for April and May, are expected to generate significant revenue. He estimated that such events might attract over 10,000 attendees into Lautoka’s central business district, significantly benefiting local businesses in food, beverage, and transportation sectors.
Khan expressed optimism regarding the advantages for local residents who can enjoy high-caliber sports matches without the need to travel abroad, alongside the positive impact on tourism. This reflects not only a focus on enhancing local infrastructure but also a commitment to fostering a vibrant community economy.
The ongoing and planned upgrades at Churchill Park and other infrastructure developments, such as the improvement of the swimming pool and transportation facilities, aim to create a modernized environment that actively enhances community involvement and engagement. Looking ahead, the council’s vision signals a promising future for Lautoka, balancing recreational improvements with local economic stimulation.
Leave a comment